Southwark Council has reversed the closure of its Dementia Advisor service, which had shut on June 30, following an emotional plea from a carer during the first executive meeting of the new Green-Lib Dem administration. The service, operating for over 20 years, will reopen in September with a £164,000 annual grant for four years, awarded to the Alzheimer's Society.
Carer's Emotional Testimony
Judith, the sole carer for her husband diagnosed with Alzheimer's in November 2022, addressed the council through tears. She described feeling lost after receiving only a pack of leaflets from St Thomas' Hospital, with no local support. “All I can say is thank you for agreeing to continue with the Dementia Advisors because they are so, so important,” she said. Cllr Rebecca Corn, Executive Member for Education and Care, responded: “Dementia affects whole families, not just individuals. Support services offer vital support and are sometimes a lifeline.”
Second Service Saved: The Nest
Alongside the Dementia Advisor service, the council also secured funding for The Nest, a mental health and wellbeing service for young people in Peckham. The Nest had been at risk of closure since its NHS funding contract expired in May 2024, with the previous Labour administration making no provision for an extension. The new administration prioritised protecting the service, ensuring self-referrals and referrals reopen without delay. Three young residents shared personal experiences of how The Nest helped them, thanking the council for the reprieve.
Funding and Future Plans
The Dementia Advisor service grant of £164,000 per year will commence on September 1, 2026. Cllr Suzanne Wise, Deputy Executive Member for Adult Services, noted the growing need for dementia services as the population ages and proposed recruiting a Spanish-speaking Dementia Advisor to support Southwark's Latin American community. Cllr Corn added: “During Disability Pride Month, I am incredibly proud that we are protecting our Dementia Advisor service through the Alzheimer's Society.”
Impact on the Community
The decisions come after Labour lost control of Southwark Council in May's elections, leading to a new Green-Lib Dem joint administration. The reversals have been welcomed by residents, with Judith's testimony highlighting the critical role of dementia advisors for carers navigating a frightening diagnosis. The council's commitment to inclusive services, including potential Spanish-language support, reflects a broader effort to address community needs.
